Cooks Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cooks Mill Dam in New Kent, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam on Mill Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 15 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 226 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 74 acre-feet. While the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition has not been rated, it is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.

Located within the Norfolk District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Cooks Mill Dam is situated in a picturesque setting that is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The dam's construction year, length, and volume are unspecified, but its historical significance and recreational value make it a valuable asset for the local community. With Robert J. Wittman as the congressional representative for the area, efforts to maintain and assess the dam's safety and emergency preparedness are ongoing to ensure the protection of the surrounding environment and residents in the event of any unforeseen incidents.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the beauty and functionality of Cooks Mill Dam, they are encouraged to appreciate the importance of proper dam management and maintenance. With a focus on risk assessment, emergency action planning, and regulatory compliance, the dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem while offering recreational opportunities for visitors. By staying informed about the dam's condition, purpose, and regulatory oversight, individuals can contribute to the preservation of this valuable water resource for future generations to enjoy.

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

226

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.